High Potential Individual Visa

Graduate Visa UK — Continue Your Journey After Studying

The Graduate Visa allows international students who have successfully completed an eligible course in the UK to stay, work, or look for work after their studies. It’s a flexible route that gives you the freedom to build your career, gain experience, or plan your next step towards long-term settlement.

At The McKenzie Friend, we provide clear, step-by-step guidance to help graduates apply confidently — ensuring all your documents, university confirmations, and timelines meet Home Office standards.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply for the Graduate Visa if you:

• Hold a valid Student Visa or Tier 4 (General) Visa at the time of application
• Successfully completed an eligible UK degree or postgraduate qualification
• Studied with a licensed student sponsor (your university or college)
• Apply while you are still in the UK

How Long Can You Stay?

• 2 years — for most graduates
• 3 years — if you completed a PhD or doctoral qualification

Why Choose the Graduate Visa?

• Work full-time, part-time, freelance, or start your own business
• No sponsorship or job offer required
• Gain valuable UK work experience for future visa routes
• Bring dependants (if already in the UK as your Student Visa dependants)
• Freedom to travel in and out of the UK

How We Support You

Our professional guidance ensures your Graduate Visa application is accurate, organised, and stress-free.

1. Eligibility Review: We confirm your course, visa, and study period meet Home Office criteria.
2. Document Preparation: Help gathering your Confirmation of Study (CAS) and graduation proof.
3. Application Submission: Step-by-step assistance with the online form, IHS payment, and uploads.
4. Post-Visa Planning: Advice on switching later to Skilled Worker, HPI, or Global Talent routes.

Documents You’ll Need

• Valid passport or travel document
• Current Student or Tier 4 Visa
• Confirmation from your university that you successfully completed your course
• Payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

Next Steps After the Graduate Visa

While the Graduate Visa can’t be extended, it provides an excellent bridge to long-term routes such as:

• Skilled Worker Visa — once you secure a qualifying job
• Global Talent Visa — if you excel in your field
• Innovator Founder Visa — for entrepreneurs and start-ups

Why Choose The McKenzie Friend?

• Specialist support for students and graduates
• Friendly guidance with clear communication
• Simple, affordable, and transparent process
• Compliant applications aligned with Home Office policies

The McKenzie Friend provides professional visa support and works in collaboration with OISC-regulated immigration advisers for all complex applications.